Shane O’Neill, still just 19 years old, has stepped up as a starter for the Rapids’ defense.

One of the key players in Colorado Rapids’ suddenly stingy defense will leave the team to join the U.S. U-20 national team in Toulon, France, next month, but he won’t miss any matches for the Rapids during his absence.

Shane O’Neill, who has been paired at center back with both Marvell Wynne and Drew Moor at separate times over the last two months, will join the U-20s for the 2013 Toulon Tournament on June 2, after the Rapids take on FC Dallas on June 1 at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City, Colorado.

The tournament runs from May 28 through June 8 as head coach Tab Ramos’ squad prepares for the 2013 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Turkey later this summer. The Rapids resume play on June 15 against San Jose Earthquakes.

“Shane has been an important part of our defensive line over the last two months and we’re happy that he can still participate in the tournament while not missing one of our regular season matches,” Rapids Technical Director Paul Bravo said.

O’Neill, who received a red card in the 90th minute of the Rapids’ 1-1 draw in San Jose on Saturday, has started seven of the Rapids last nine matches. The Rapids are 4-2-3 and have conceded only six goals in that stretch.

The homegrown player from Boulder will miss the Rapids’ next match due to the red card.

When O’Neill arrives in France, he will join fellow homegrown Rapids player Dillon Serna of Brighton.

Colorado Rapids No. 17 Dillon Serna was called up to the U.S. U-20 squad for his fourth time.

“It’s a great honor for Dillon to be called up to the team so regularly, especially as the U-20 World Cup approaches,” Senior Director of Youth Development Brian Crookham said. “This kind of tournament and training is valuable for his development as a young player in an older group, and the Colorado Rapids are extremely proud of his accomplishments thus far.”